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New natural stone is an investment in lasting beauty that will give many years of wear. This care guide gives a few tips on how to properly care for natural stone and help extend its life and beauty. Following some simple precautions, properly sealing, and using the correct cleaning methods and products, will insure a lifetime of use from natural stone.
Cleaning Procedures & Recommendations
Keeping stone free of dust and dry, sandy soil will minimize the scratches and wear-patterns that can develop from everyday use of some natural stone, such as marble, limestone and sandstone. Sweep or dust all natural stone surfaces regularly to remove loose soil and dust.
Clean natural stone on a regular basis with warm water and a clean, non-abrasive cloth or mop. In addition, using a neutral cleaner specially formulated for natural stone will help remove soils that normal dusting or damp mopping leave behind.
Do not use general purpose cleaners or you may damage the stone or the sealer applied. Do not use products that contain lemon, vinegar or other acids as these may etch the stone surface and damage the polish. Do not use scouring powders or creams; these products contain abrasives that may scratch the surface.
Floor Surfaces
Dust mop interior floors frequently using a clean non-treated dry dust mop. Sand, dirt and grit do the most damage to natural stone surfaces due to their abrasiveness. Mats or area rugs inside and outside an entrance will help to minimize the potential damage from these particles. In addition, be careful when using a vacuum cleaner as the metal or plastic attachments or wheels may scratch the surface.
What To Do When A Spill Occurs
No matter how careful you are, spills are going to happen. A quick response can keep spills from damaging stone or the sealer.
Etch Marks
Substances that are highly acidic, such as orange juice, coffee, vinegar, wine, tomato products, mustard and many soft drinks, will “etch” most marble, limestone and travertine - whether the stone is sealed or unsealed. Although sealing allows you time to wipe up a spill, it cannot stop the chemical reaction that may leave a dull area or etch mark in the stone.
In addition, cleaners not specifically designed for natural stone are not recommended. These may etch away the polish, discolor the surface, scratch the stone or degrade the sealer. That’s why selecting the correct cleaning products is so important to the lifetime beauty of your natural stone. Professional refinishing is the best way to permanently remove etch marks and restore your natural stone’s even finish.
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